tough contrast

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "tough contrast" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a significant or difficult difference between two things, often in a comparative context. Example: "The tough contrast between the vibrant city life and the serene countryside made her decision even harder."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Instead, Mr. Christie reserved his sharp words for a tough contrast between the Republican approach to solving problems and a Democratic approach that he said would continue to fail to turn around the American economy and the country's broken political system.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

Health secretary Jeremy Hunt's tough line with junior doctors contrasts with his and his predecessors' timid approach in addressing the chaotic management of NHS England procurement expenditure.

The Guardian

This contrasts with the increasingly tough line the government is taking with unemployed people not on disability benefits.

The Economist

But what's really bold and satisfying about the structure is its cladding in oak and Siberian larch – a tough, practical contrast to the weathered brick of the house.

Independent

She's all "Don't you think?" and "Do you find?" and "Have you noticed?" Could it also be a habit developed as a result of spending 23 years with a business partner who played tough in contrast to her more conciliatory approach?

The Guardian - Lifestyle

The tough stance contrasts with the Bush administration's willingness to provide loan guarantees and other assistance to the American airline industry after the Sept. 11 terror attacks.

The New York Times

Their program is ambitious and diverse, with two tough and contrasting pieces from the standard repertory -- the Ravel trio and the Schubert E flat -- and a newish piece called "Camera Dances" by Scott Wheeler.

The New York Times

The designer quoted the poet John Milton to enforce his message: "Was I deceiv'd, or did a sable cloud / Turn forth her silver lining on the night?" That was a neat interpretation of a collection that had wispy chiffon vapors emanating from slim, strict clothes, tough leather contrasting with the puff-cloud lightness.

The New York Times

McDonnell's tough approach contrasts with that of former Sheriff Lee Baca, who let some proven liars off with remedial classes.

Los Angeles Times

Mr Arinc's conciliatory remarks contrasted with the tougher line taken by Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan, who has dismissed the protests as undemocratic.

BBC

The public service announcements, and the paid advertising in the South during the recent push, have taken an increasingly tough tone, in contrast to that of the slapstick crash-test dummies of the 1990's.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "tough contrast" to highlight significant and impactful differences between two subjects, emphasizing the strength or difficulty of reconciling these differences.

Common error

While appropriate in many formal and neutral settings, avoid using "tough contrast" excessively in casual conversations, as it can sound overly formal or stilted. Opt for simpler alternatives like "big difference" or "clear contrast" in informal contexts.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "tough contrast" functions as a noun phrase where the adjective "tough" modifies the noun "contrast". It describes a significant and often challenging difference. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Wiki

15%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "tough contrast" is a grammatically correct and widely used phrase to describe a significant and often challenging difference between two things. According to Ludwig AI, it is usable in written English and suitable for formal and neutral contexts, particularly in News & Media. While alternatives like "stark difference" or "sharp distinction" exist, "tough contrast" emphasizes the strength or difficulty associated with the difference. When using this phrase, consider the context to ensure it aligns with the desired level of formality.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

stark difference

Emphasizes an extreme level of dissimilarity.

sharp distinction

Highlights a clear and easily noticeable difference.

marked divergence

Suggests a significant deviation or departure.

noticeable disparity

Indicates an inequality or difference that is easily observed.

clear differentiation

Focuses on the act of distinguishing between two things.

pronounced opposition

Highlights a strong and evident resistance or contrast.

significant contradiction

Emphasizes an inconsistency or conflict between two things.

obvious incongruity

Suggests a lack of harmony or compatibility that is easily seen.

major discrepancy

Indicates a substantial difference or inconsistency.

striking antithesis

Highlights a direct and obvious opposite.

FAQs

How can I use "tough contrast" in a sentence?

You can use "tough contrast" to emphasize a significant difference between two things. For example: "The "tough contrast" between city and rural life became apparent during the relocation."

What are some alternatives to "tough contrast"?

Alternatives include "stark difference", "sharp distinction", or "marked divergence", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "tough contrast" formal or informal?

"Tough contrast" is suitable for formal and neutral contexts. In more informal settings, consider using simpler phrases like "big difference" or "clear contrast".

What's the difference between "tough contrast" and "stark contrast"?

"Tough contrast" emphasizes the difficulty or strength associated with the difference, while "stark contrast" simply highlights the clear and obvious nature of the difference.